Future Mercedes-Benz CLA previewed

The Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA has made its world debut at the IAA Mobility show in Munich, previewing a new family of sleek compact models comprising a sedan, wagon and at least two SUVs.

As we reported in February, the next-generation 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA, GLA/EQA and GLB/EQB are expected to ride on an all-new platform and offer both full-electric and combustion powertrains – and be joined by a rugged new compact off-roader nicknamed ‘baby G-Class’ – but the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and B-Class are likely to be quietly killed off from 2025.

Described by its creators as a “close-to-production insight into the upcoming family of vehicles that stands at the gateway to the brand”, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA is underpinned by the German car-maker’s upcoming MMA platform and is said to be good for a long 750km-plus range thanks to energy consumption of just 12kWh/100 km.

The impressive numbers come courtesy of a series of next-generation EV componentry including the all-new 800V underpinnings, silicon-oxide (and lithium-ion phosphate) battery chemistry, new electric motors and a two-speed transmission, plus less weight and a slipperier body.

Mercedes-Benz hasn’t published official battery capacities or outright performance claims yet, but it has confirmed the concept is powered by a single 175kW motor driving the rear wheels only, although dual-motor versions will be possible thanks to the new platform’s modularity.

A silicon carbide inverter helps keep the powertrain’s weight down and minimise energy losses between the battery and the wheels, to the point that Mercedes is claiming 93 per cent battery energy efficiency.

The high-voltage architecture of the MMA platform will allow drivers to charge their vehicles at up to 250kW via a DC fast-charger and while we don’t have an official 10-80 per cent charge time, Mercedes reckons up to 100km of range can be added in just 15 minutes of charging at this power.

Adding to this versatility is the fact the Concept CLA is capable of bi-directional charging in both vehicle-to-home (V2H) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) applications – something Mercedes says is a “desire of many customers” wishing to “combine their own individual mobility with a more sustainable way of living”.

Sustainability is a key focus of the zero-emissions sedan both in terms of its powertrain componentry and its cabin materials, with minimal rare earths being used in the drive motor and a cabin awash with sustainably sourced and recycled materials like paper trim, vege oil-based tan for the Nappa leather upholstery and bamboo-fibre floor mats.

The cabin itself is as futuristic as the exterior – if not more so – and dominated by a white leather and crystal theme. with the latter being emphasised by cool blue and white lighting in almost every facet of the interior.

Adding to the futuristic vibe is the MBUX Superscreen dash, which in this application, borrows the high-efficiency mini-LED technology and immersive 3D graphics of the Vision EQXX concept.

The technology-rich cabin is finished off by a crystal-trimmed multi-function steering wheel, four next-generation bucket seats, floating centre console and glass roof.

According to Mercedes-Benz, the Concept CLA progresses many of the innovations and design cues seen on the Vision EQXX concept, taking them one or two steps closer to production, and reimagines the ‘one-litre’ car with its immense efficiency.

“The Concept CLA Class is the forerunner for an entirely new all-electric segment of entry-level vehicles at Mercedes-Benz,” said Mercedes-Benz chairman Ola Källenius.

“This new model family is inspired by a generation of car buyers who want that unmistakable Mercedes-Benz feel, with more features, even greater comfort and safety and the most advanced technology.

“This hypermiler is the one-litre car of the electric age.”

Mercedes-Benz says the production version of the Concept CLA and its three derivatives will be the first complete portfolio developed “from scratch” as part of its Ambition 2039 product strategy.

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